Hope Valley is a great place for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Although snow takes some time to build up in the area, you would be hard-pressed to locate a better area in the mountain with a similarly long extension of flat terrain and elevation that receives snow. The flatness and distance appeal to cross-country skiers of all levels ranging from beginners to pros. The extensive Hope Valley Sno-Park offers the perfect parking solution. So, you won’t have to worry about parking space as long as you have your Sno-Park permit. Other things to look forward to when you go for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in Hope Valley include spectacular views of Picket Peak, Hawkins Peak, Markleeville Peak, Round Top, Red Lake Peak, Stevens Peak, Waterhouse Peak, Thompson Peak, and Freel Peak.
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing in Hope Valley Through Sno-Park
It is a great idea to buy a Sno-Park ticket in Meyers, South Lake Tahoe, or online before heading to Hope Valley Sno-Park since there are no permits sold at the pack. It is also worth considering that Sno-Park is not suitable for sledding since it is an almost entirely flat area. Water features such as the West Fork of the Carson River and Maxwell Creek pass through the meadow close to Snow-Park, so it might be a good idea to be cautious when approaching this region. Hope Valley Sno-Park is popular with snowmobilers, and it’s a good idea to keep out of them and generally stay aware of your surroundings to ensure your safety when in the area. You should always pay attention to every Leave No Trace rule while in the area. Since there are not many trail markers and signs on the public land around the Tahoe area, navigating the region can be a bit of a challenge sometimes. However, as a rule, you should always turn back whenever you are not sure whether you are using the correct route. It’s a great idea to visit the area sufficiently equipped with food, water, and warm clothes to take into account any variations in weather that may occur. When you embark on your skiing and snowshoeing expedition at Sno-Park you should leave someone with an itinerary detailing your plan who can contact emergency services in case you are not back by the time prescribed in the itinerary. You are allowed to bring dogs, but they should always be kept on a leash and you are required to clean up after them.
Parking at Sno-Park
One of the reasons that make cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at Hope valley is the abundant parking space at Sno-Park. The area offers a hassle-free access point conveniently located at the heart of Hope Valley. To access the parking area go south on SR-89 from the intersection of SR-89 and HWY-50 in Meyers. Go up and through Luther Pass and then down Hope Valley. Near the end of the thirteen-mile road, you will meet a t-intersection, also referred to as Pickett’s Junction. When you arrive at Pickett’s Junction, drive west two and a half miles on SR-88 to arrive at Blue Lakes Road. North of the Blue Lakes Road is Hope Valley Sno-Park.